Methods, devices, systems, and computer program products for managing and delivering media content

ABSTRACT

An aspect of managing media content includes a memory device and a processor communicatively coupled to the memory device. The processor executes program instructions for causing the processor to perform operations. The operations include providing user-selectable options for managing storage space in the memory device that is allocated for an account. The options include an option for defining a condition for generating an alert when a threshold amount of the storage space is consumed. The operations also include receiving a data stream from a media device assigned to the account, determining an encoding rate corresponding to the data stream, monitoring consumption of the storage space, and upon determining the condition is met, transmitting the alert to the media device. The alert indicates an amount of storage space consumed and an approximated amount of recording time remaining for the data stream before a maximum capacity of the storage space is reached.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/311,787, filed Jun. 23, 2014 which is a continuation of Ser. No.11/744,970, filed May 7, 2007, the content of both are incorporated byreference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to managing and deliveringmedia content, and more particularly, to methods, devices, systems, andcomputer program products for managing and delivering media content.

Present devices allow for the capture of personal media that may bedistributed via a variety of methods. Many of the current methodsavailable for distributing personal media rely upon a device thatrequires a target viewer to utilize a personal computer to access anetwork (e.g., Internet). These current methods generally requireseveral steps to implement. For example, a digital image is captured bya camera in its internal memory and then subsequently transferred tosecondary storage (e.g., on a personal computer. The digital image maythen be retrieved from storage for viewing or transmitted electronicallyto a designated recipient via, e.g., email attachment. Alternatively, adigital image may be uploaded to a web site where other network userscan access the web site and view the image.

Thus, many of the current methods available provide distribution of themedia subsequent to its capture and storage upon a storage device thatis independent and distinct from the device which originally capturedthe media.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments include systems, devices, methods, and computerprogram products for managing and delivering media content.

A system includes a memory device and a processor communicativelycoupled to the memory device. The processor executes programinstructions. The program instructions cause the processor to performoperations. The operations include providing, via a user interface,user-selectable options for managing storage space in the memory devicethat is allocated for a user account. The user-selectable optionsinclude an option for defining a condition for generating an alert whena threshold amount of the storage space is consumed. The operations alsoinclude receiving, over a network, a data stream from a media deviceassigned to the user account, determining an encoding rate correspondingto the data stream received by the media device, storing the data streamin the storage space, and monitoring consumption of the storage space inresponse to the storing. Upon determining the condition is metresponsive to the monitoring, the operations include transmitting thealert to the media device. The alert indicates an amount of storagespace consumed and an approximated amount of recording time remainingfor the data stream before a maximum capacity of the storage space isreached. The approximated amount of recording time is determined as afunction of the encoding rate.

Other systems, devices, methods, and/or computer program productsaccording to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill inthe art upon review of the following drawings and detailed description.It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/orcomputer program products be included within this description, be withinthe scope of the exemplary embodiments, and be protected by theaccompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings wherein like elements are numbered alikein the several FIGURES:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a media file management system in exemplaryembodiments;

FIG. 2 is a flow diagram describing a process for managing media contentby a media recording device in exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram describing a process for delivering a livemedia stream over a network in exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a display screen of a media recording device including optionsfor taking action on a media file in exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a user interface screen depicting menu options for managingmedia files, accounts, and authorization information in exemplaryembodiments;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram describing a process for providing centralizedmedia management services in exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a sample account record and media file directory created viathe media file management system in exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a display screen including a sample communication transmittedvia the media file management system in exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a display screen depicting a sample media file library andoptions provided by the media file management system in exemplaryembodiments; and

FIG. 10 is a display screen depicting a sample alert and related optionsprovided by the media file management system in exemplary embodiments.

The detailed description explains the exemplary embodiments, togetherwith advantages and features, by way of example with reference to thedrawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Media management and delivery systems, devices, methods, and computerprogram products are provided in exemplary embodiments. In oneembodiment, a host system provides centralized media management servicesincluding storage management and delivery of media content to a targetreceiving device. In another embodiment, a media recording deviceincludes features for enabling the delivery and management of mediacontent. In a further embodiment, a media recording device includesfeatures to enable the delivery of near real-time media content.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a media file management system 100 will now bedescribed in exemplary embodiments. The media file management system 100includes a media recording device 110 configured to capture a media fileby a user, and a media services system 105 in communication with themedia recording device 110 via one or more networks 125 (referred tofurther herein as “network”). As used herein, the term “media file”shall refer to any representation of media content, such as atransmitted or stored audio signal, video signal, or image signal, forexample. In exemplary embodiments, the media file is a video media file.In another embodiment, the media file is a near real-time video mediafile. As used herein, the term “near-real time” shall refer to a nearlycontemporaneous transmission and delivery of the media file, and thatsuch delivery may include small delays as a result of transfer amongmultiple transmission paths, and confirmation of appropriate accessauthorization, as will be discussed further below.

In exemplary embodiments, the media services system 105 further includesa host system 130 in communication with the network 125. The host system130 executes a media services application 103 for storing, managing, anddistributing media files as described further herein. In exemplaryembodiments, host system 130 may be implemented using any suitablehigh-speed microprocessor capable of handling the volume of activitiesprovided by the features and functions of the media services system 105.Host system 130 may be accessed over the network 125 and may furtherinclude a security feature or firewall (not shown) in order to protectthe integrity of the data stored within the media services system 105.Other security features are described further herein. In addition to themedia management services described herein, the media servicesapplication 103 also includes an accounts management component 120, anauthentication component 122, a media files management component 124,and an authorization component 126. The account management component 120administers media management accounts (accounts) on behalf of varioususers. For example, the account management component 120 may be taskedwith provisioning users, or groups of users (e.g., a family) with theservices made available through the media management services describedherein, which are further managed through account records establishedfor each user or group of users. In addition, media devices associatedwith these users may be managed through the account management component120. The authentication component 122 verifies the identities of usersseeking to access or view media files. The media files managementcomponent 124 manages media file storage for account users. Theauthorization component 126 controls access to the host system 130 or tothe storage component. These components 120-126 are described furtherherein.

The host system 130 is in communication with a storage device 106.Storage device 106 stores media files captured by media recordingdevices, account records of individuals that subscribe to the mediamanagement services provided by the host system 130, as well as relatedinformation. Network 125 may employ various wireless communications andtransmissions protocols, such as personal communications service (PCS),WiFi, Ultrawideband, Bluetooth, and satellite transmission, as well asdifferent wireline protocols, such as telephone communications, cablecommunications and power line communications, to name a few. Inexemplary embodiments, the host system 130 includes a location address,e.g., a uniform resource locator (URL), to make it available to anymedia file receiving device (e.g., media file receiving devices150A-150C) that has capability to access the network 125.

For purposes of illustration, media file receiving device 150A is ageneral-purpose computer, media file receiving device 150B is atelevision, and media file receiving device 150C is a mobile wirelessmedia player (e.g., MP3 player). These devices are also referred toherein as “receiving devices.” In exemplary embodiments, each ofreceiving devices 150A-150C includes a network interface for enablingthe respective receiving devices to communicate with the host system 130and/or media recording device 110 over network 125. For example, thenetwork interface of receiving device 150A may include a modem.Receiving device 150B may communicate over network 125 via an InternetProtocol-enabled set top box (STB) interface 140. Receiving device 150Cmay include a network card or similar means that enables communicationsover network 125.

While embodiments have been described having at least one of atelevision, a personal computer, and a mobile media player as receivingdevices 150, it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention isnot so limited, and that the invention may also apply to media filemanagement systems that include other devices (e.g., cellulartelephones, personal digital assistants, etc.) capable of accessingnetwork 125, such as via a URL for example, and to display media files.

In exemplary embodiments, STB 140 is in communication with an interfacedevice 160, such as a remote control, as one of many possibleimplementations, for example. The interface device 160 may be configuredto allow entry of an access code for the selection of a personalchannel. A personal channel may be a channel created by an accountholder via the media services application 103. The personal channel mayinclude a customizable selection of media files and media content thatinclude one or more stored media file and near real-time media file. Inexemplary embodiments, a display adapter on receiving devices 150A-150Cmay be configured to visually or audibly distinguish the availability ofthe stored media file from the near real-time media file. For example,live media files may be distinguished visually by applyingcharacteristics, such as blinking or flashing, underlining, color ortone differences, etc.

It will be appreciated that the user of media recording device 110 maydesire to limit, or restrict the access by others to the media file.This may be accomplished, e.g., by creating an authorization requirementto be associated with the media file. The authorization requirement maycontrol to whom access to the media file is granted. In one exemplaryembodiment, the authorization requirement is implemented byauthorization settings provided via the authorization component 126. Theauthorization settings may specifically identify a target viewer (e.g.,one or more of receiving devices 150A-150C) for which access to a mediafile may be granted. In another exemplary embodiment, the authorizationrequirement may be implemented by assigning an access code to a mediafile (e.g., via the authorization settings of component 126) and thenforwarding the access code to a target viewer, e.g., by email. Inexemplary embodiments, in response to the identity associated with thetarget viewer meeting the authorization requirement, the media recordingdevice 110 is configured to make available to the receiving devices150A-150C access to the media file via network 125. In anotherembodiment, a media services application 103 is configured to store anddistribute the set of media files in accordance with the authorizationrequirement.

In exemplary embodiments, the host system 130, via media servicesapplication 103, is receptive of the media file, the authorizationrequirement, a request by the target viewer to access the media file,and the identity associated with the target viewer, and is configured toconfirm that the identity associated with the target viewer meets theauthorization requirement via, e.g., the authentication component 122 ofthe media services application 103. In response to confirming that theidentity associated with the target viewer is in accordance with, ormeets the authorization requirement associated with the media file, thehost system 130 is configured to make available to the receiving devices150A-150C access to the media file. In exemplary embodiments, theidentity associated with the target viewer via the receiving device 150is a globally unique identifier (GUID). The GUID is associated with, anduniquely identifies, the receiving device 150. Correspondingly, a targetviewer may be identified via a receiving device GUID. Alternatively, theidentity may be a MAC address, IP address, etc. It will be furtherappreciated that, in a similar fashion, an identity associated with theuser may allow access by the user to a set of media files stored, e.g.,in storage device 106 in accordance with the authorization requirementassociated with the set of media files. Further, the identity associatedwith the user may define the personal channel into which the media filesare stored, and may be assigned via the media recording device 110, aswill be described further below.

In exemplary embodiments, the user may purchase or otherwise obtain anamount of storage space within the storage device 106 of host system 130to be used for the storage of media files within the personal channel.In exemplary embodiments, access to the personal channel of the user maybe granted to the target viewer following successful entry of an accesscode, e.g., via the interface device 160. In another embodiment, accessto media files stored within the personal channel will be granted to thetarget viewer according to the authorization requirement associated withthe media file and the identity associated with the target viewer viathe receiving device 150.

The media recording device 110 includes a media recording structure asmay be found in current media recording systems. The media recordingdevice 110 further includes a computer processor 111 in communicationwith other components of the media recording device 110. In exemplaryembodiments, the processor 111 executes a media management application116 for facilitating the media management activities described herein.

In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device 110 furtherincludes a transmitter 112 configured to transmit communication signals,including the media file, the authorization requirement associated withthe media file, and the identity associated with the user. In exemplaryembodiments, the transmitter 112 is configured to transmit the mediafile, the authorization requirement associated with the media file, andthe identity associated with the user and/or target receiving device viaa communications path, e.g., wireless or wireline network connection. Inexemplary embodiments, the transmitter 112 is configured to transmit anear-real time media file to the network 125.

In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device 110 also includes areceiver 113, configured to receive communication signals, includingmedia files that may be stored in storage device 106, as well as othercommunication signals.

While embodiments have been described with a media recording device 110having a separate receiver 113 and transmitter 112, it will beappreciated that the scope of the embodiments is not so limited, andthat the embodiments may also apply to media recording devices havingother means to transmit and receive media files, such as a transceiver,for example.

In exemplary embodiments, a signal detection component 119 implementedby the media recording device 110 may be configured to determine andcompare signal strengths of available networks (e.g., network withinsignaling range of the media recording device 110), and to select one ofthe available networks based upon that which has the stronger signalaccording to the signal strength comparison. The signal detectioncomponent 119 may be implemented using signal detection theorytechniques (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio analysis) as will be appreciatedby those skilled in the art. In exemplary embodiments, the mediamanagement application 116 is configured to select the connection basedupon one of a number of criteria. For example, criteria for selecting anetwork for transmitting a media file may include: the connection mannerthat has the greater bandwidth capability, the connection manner that isable to provide the most efficient transfer of the media file, and thatwhich is able to provide the transfer of the media file with the lowestservice cost to the user. In exemplary embodiments, the media managementapplication 116 is configured to assign the identity associated with theuser of the media recording device 110.

In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device 110 furtherincludes a user interface in communication with the media recordingdevice 110. The user interface includes an input component 114 (e.g., akeyboard, data entry device, etc.) and an output component 115 (e.g.,display screen, sound card, etc.). The user interface may be configuredvia the media management application 116 to display the media file,configuration settings related to the media recording device 110, and tobe responsive to user input. In exemplary embodiments, the userinterface is configured to allow user input of information related tothe media file. For example, the user may utilize the user interface tocreate a title or descriptor related to the media file, so that the easeof subsequent identification of the media file may be enhanced,particularly among other media files that may be stored within thestorage device 106 and/or media recording device 110. A descriptorprovides information relating to the media file, such that the mediafile can be easily distinguished among other media files. The descriptormay be implemented as embedded content within the media file itselfusing, e.g., MPEG or other standards. In exemplary embodiments, themedia recording device 110 is configured to communicate with the hostsystem 130 via the transmitter 112 and the receiver 113. In exemplaryembodiments, the output component 115 of the user interface isconfigured to display any media files stored in storage device 106 forwhich access has been granted to the identity associated with the userof the media recording device 110.

While embodiments of the media recording device 110 have been depictedhaving an integrated user interface, it will be appreciated that thescope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments mayalso apply to media recording devices that are in communication with theuser interface via other way, such as a user interface that is detachedfrom the media recording device 110 and is in wireline or wirelesscommunication with the media recording device 110, for example.

In exemplary embodiments, the media management application 116 isconfigured to assign a unique identity associated with the mediarecording device 110 that will be matched to the location address (e.g.,URL) of the personal channel, or account associated with the user.However, it will be appreciated that it may be desirable to allow theuser to assign, or change, the association between the media recordingdevice 110 and the personal channel. For example, if the media recordingdevice 110 is destroyed during a vacation, the user may quickly acquirea new media recording device 110, and appropriately enter the locationaddress (e.g., URL) assignment via the user interface. As a secondexample, multiple users, having multiple location addresses (e.g., URLs)associated with multiple personal channels, may desire to share the samemedia recording device 110. As a third example, an amount of storagespace within storage device 106 that is assigned to a particularpersonal channel may be shared and allocated among multiple users. Inexemplary embodiments, the media management application 116 allows entryof an access code via the user interface, such as a user name andpassword combination, for example, to appropriately assign theassociation of the media recording device 110 with the correspondingpersonal channel.

In exemplary embodiments, media recording devices may be assigned to oneaccount record (e.g., where one account includes one or more individualsand one or more media recording devices). In alternative exemplaryembodiments, a single media recording device may be assigned to multipleusers. The media account records may be configured to permit authorizedaccount members to establish permissions with respect to the mediamanagement activities described herein. For example, a parent on anaccount may permit a junior account member to view media files stored instorage device 106 but not transmit media files.

While embodiments have been described using a combination of user nameand password to assign the association of the media recording device110, it will be appreciated that the scope of the embodiments is not solimited, and that the embodiments may also apply to media recordingdevices that may use other identification methods to assign theassociation of the media recording device to the personal channel, suchas a fingerprint reader, and an iris scanner, for example.

It will be appreciated that a viewer of the media file (to whom accesshas been granted) may desire to communicate with the user of the mediarecording device 110 via a target receiving device (e.g., one ofreceiving devices 150A-150C). For example, a grandparent viewing a nearreal-time media file of a grandchild's sporting event may have a commentof encouragement to be passed on to the grandchild. In exemplaryembodiments, the media recording device 110 further includes an instantmessaging client 117 configured to receive and send instant messages viathe transmitter 112 and the receiver 113. In exemplary embodiments, theuser interface is configured to display and compose instant messages viathe input component 114 and the output component 115. In exemplaryembodiments, the receiver 113 is configured to make available to theinstant messaging client 117 instant messages received by the mediarecording device 110 and the transmitter 112 is configured to transmitinstant messages made available by the instant messaging client 117. Inexemplary embodiments, at least one of the receiving devices 150A-150Cinclude an instant messaging client (not shown) configured to makeavailable instant messages between the media recording device 110 and arespective display component of the receiving devices via network 125.

In exemplary embodiments, the media services application 103 manages theamount of storage space within storage device 106 that is assigned tothe account of the user. It will be appreciated that as media files aretransmitted from the media recording device 110 to the host system 130,an amount of remaining storage space available on the host system 130may continue to decrease. In exemplary embodiments, media managementapplication 116 is configured to receive information provided by thehost system 130 related to the amount of remaining storage space, suchas to alert the user to a diminishing amount of remaining storage space,for example. A sample alert is shown in FIG. 10. The receiver 113 isconfigured to make the alert available to the user via the outputcomponent 115 of the user interface. In exemplary embodiments, the alertis a display. In another embodiment, the alert is an instant message. Inexemplary embodiments, the alert will notify the user of the amount ofremaining storage space in the storage device 106. In exemplaryembodiments, the alert will notify the user of an amount of timeremaining that corresponds to an encoding rate at which the media fileis currently being captured, as well as an amount of time remaining thatcorresponds to alternate encoding rates available for selection by theuser.

In exemplary embodiments, subsequent to receipt of the alert, the mediamanagement application 116 allows the user, via the input component 114,to select a response to the alert regarding the diminishing amount ofremaining storage space. The user may elect to continue making availablethe media file at the current encoding rate, which will effectively makeno change in a duration of the media file that remaining amount ofstorage space can hold. The user may also elect to begin makingavailable the media file at a reduced encoding rate, which willeffectively increase the duration of the media file that the remainingamount of storage space can hold. The user may also elect to purchase anadditional amount of storage space, thereby increasing the amount ofassigned storage space as well as a length of time that the media filemay be stored in storage device 106. In exemplary embodiments, the userwill be able to purchase the additional amount of storage space via anydevice configured to access one of the personal channel and theInternet, such as a personal digital assistant, cell phone, personalcomputer, and set-top box, for example. The user may also elect toremove any of the set of media files stored in storage device 106,thereby increasing the amount of remaining storage space, as well as aduration of the media file that can be stored in storage device 106 ofhost system 130. In exemplary embodiments, the user may preview themedia file prior to removal from the storage device 106 via the outputcomponent 115 of the user interface.

In exemplary embodiments, the user may select a default response to ashortage of remaining storage. In exemplary embodiments, the defaultresponse will include at least one of deleting media files based uponthe file creation date, deleting media files based upon time elapsedsubsequent to the last access date, deleting media files based upon themedia file size, and deleting media files based upon a user assignedpriority.

It will be appreciated that in some circumstances, the media recordingdevice 110 may not be able to establish a connection with the hostsystem 130 via the network 125. In exemplary embodiments, the mediarecording device 110 further includes a storage component 118 configuredto store media files. In exemplary embodiments, the storage component ofhost system 130 is a magnetic media storage device, such as a hard discdrive, for example. In exemplary embodiments, the storage component 118is a solid state storage device, including non-volatile solid statememory circuits. The storage component 118 allows the media file to bestored and subsequently transmitted to the host system 130 for storageand distribution.

While embodiments have been described having magnetic media or solidstate storage devices, it will be appreciated that the scope of theembodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments may also applyto media recording devices that have other devices configured to storemedia files.

In exemplary embodiments, the storage component 118 is configured toprovide temporary storage of the near real-time media file prior totransmission to the network 125. Use of the temporary storage, oftenknown as “caching” in the art, can provide time for the user to selectthe appropriate response following the alert notifying the user of thediminishing amount of remaining allocated storage space in storagedevice 106, as discussed above. Further, in exemplary embodiments, theuser interface is configured to display the media files stored on thestorage component 118 via the media management application 116.

In exemplary embodiments, the storage component 118 is configured tofunction as a server to store and distribute the media files, and mayallow any of the receiving devices 150A-150C, absent a connection to thehost system 130, to connect to the storage component 118 of the mediarecording device 110 via network 125. This is a connection type oftenknown in the art as a peer-to-peer connection. In exemplary embodiments,the receiving device 150 is in communication with the network 125 and isconfigured to request access to the media files. In exemplaryembodiments, the media management application 116 receives a request foraccess to any of the set media files stored in the storage component 118from the receiving device 150 via receiver 113 and transceiver 120,absent connection through the host system 130. The media managementapplication 116 confirms that the identity associated with the targetviewer meets the authorization requirement, or to confirm theauthorization of the request to access the media file. In exemplaryembodiments, the confirmation of the authorization is performed bycomparing a set of identities, defined by the authorization requirement,to whom access is granted, with the identity associated with targetviewer originating the request. In response to confirmation ofauthorization of the request, the media management application 116permits access, via the transmitter 112 and receiver 113 to therequested media file. It will be appreciated that a request for accessto the media file may be made that has not been previously authorizedfor access, and that the user of the media recording device 110 maydesire to grant such access. In exemplary embodiments, the userinterface is configured to allow the user to provide authorization ofthe request that was not previously authorized.

In exemplary embodiments, the receiving devices 150A-15C are configuredto display a media file library indicating a selection of media filesthat allows the target viewer to select one of the media files that arestored in storage device 106, the media files stored in the storagecomponent 118, and the near-real time media file. In exemplaryembodiments, the receiving devices 150 are configured to distinguish theselection of the media files stored in storage device 106, the mediafiles stored in the storage component 118, and the near-real time mediafile. In exemplary embodiments, the receiving devices 150 are configuredto distinguish the different media files via visual and/or audioattributes, such as color, intensity, and additional symbols, forexample.

In exemplary embodiments, the personal channel may be configured toallow capture of the media file. For example, while the viewer isaccessing the media file, they may also record a copy of the media fileto a digital video recorder (DVR), and subsequently copy the media fileto a digital video disc (DVD)/digital versatile disc (DVD) forsubsequent viewing.

It will be appreciated that access to the media file may be commerciallydesirable. For example, if the user is located at a news-making event,target viewers may be willing to compensate the user for access to themedia file. In exemplary embodiments, the user interface in conjunctionwith the media management application 116, the transmitter 112 and thereceiver 113, is configured to access an online merchant, such as anonline auction merchant, for example, via the network 125 and to offerfor sale access to the media file. The media management application 116enables the user to receive an offer for purchase of access to the mediafile, accept the offer for purchase, and grant access, or make availableaccess to the purchased media file.

While embodiments have been described as offering for sale access to themedia file the via an online auction merchant, it will be appreciatedthe scope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodimentsmay also apply to media recording devices that may offer access to themedia files via alternate means, such as by an electronic storefront, oragreement via instant message, for example.

Turning now to FIG. 2, a flow diagram describing a process for managingmedia content by a media recording device will now be described inexemplary embodiments. At operation 202, a media recording device (e.g.,media recording device 110) captures media content (e.g., a live event)via a media recording structure disposed therein. At operation 204, auser identification (ID) is assigned to a media file that comprises themedia content. In exemplary embodiments, the media file represents adigitized version of the media content. The user ID specifies anidentity of a user of the media recording device 110 (e.g., anindividual who is capturing the media content via the media recordingdevice 110). The user ID may be assigned to the media file via, e.g.,electronic tag or other structure for associating a media file withadditional data elements. The media management application 116 includesa user interface for enabling user inputs to the media recording device110. The user interface provides selectable options, e.g., on the outputcomponent 115, such as a display of the media recording device. A sampledisplay screen is shown in FIG. 4. In exemplary embodiments, adescriptor may be created for the media file at operation 205. Thedescriptor may be added by selecting an option ADD DESCRIPTOR 410 inwindow 402 of FIG. 4.

At operation 206, it is determined whether a media file that is storedin storage component 118 of media recording device 110 is to betransmitted, e.g., over network 125. This determination may be made bythe user via, e.g., the user interface of media recording device (e.g.,input keys, voice commands, etc.). As shown in the display screen 400 ofFIG. 4, the user may select the option, TRANSMIT FILE 404 provided inthe window 402 of the display screen 400.

In alternative exemplary embodiments, the determination may be made inresponse to a request from one of receiving devices 150A-150C to accessthe media file. In either case, if it is determined that the media filewill not be transmitted at operation 206, it may be stored in storagedevice 118 by the user if desired at operation 208 (e.g., by selectingthe option SAVE 406 in window 402).

If, however, it is determined that the media file is to be transmittedat operation 206, one or more destination addresses for transmitting themedia file are received at operation 210. The destination addressincludes, e.g., a URL or a similar location-addressable element thatidentifies a receiving device (e.g., one receiving devices 150A-150C) ora network storage facility (e.g., host system 130).

As indicated above, the media management application 116 may beconfigured to select an optimum communication path for transmitting themedia file. This feature may be implemented, e.g., via the optionTRANSMIT FILE 404 or in response to user selected preferences asdescribed further in FIG. 5. If this feature is selected, the signaldetection component 119 of the media recording device 110 analyzes thesignal strength of any available, or identified, communication paths atoperation 212.

At operation 214, the signal detection component 119 determines whetherthere are any available communication paths. If not, the media file maybe stored locally in storage component 118 at operation 216, and theprocess returns to operation 212 whereby the signal detection component119 continues to monitor signals from available networks.

At operation 218, if more than one available communication path isdetermined, the signal quality of each path is compared by the signaldetection component 119. From this comparison, an optimal communicationpath is determined by the signal detection component 119 at operation220, based upon any one or more of criteria described above with respectto FIG. 1. The media file is then transmitted from the media recordingdevice 110 to the destination address via the optimal communication pathat operation 222. Alternatively, if only a single communication path isdetermined from operation 214, the media file is transmitted atoperation 222 via the available communication path.

As described above with respect to FIG. 1, the media recording device110 is configured to manage and deliver live media streams captured bythe device 110 to designated network elements. Turning now to FIG. 3, aflow diagram describing a process for delivering a live media streamover a network will now be described in exemplary embodiments.

At operation 302, one or more network addresses for transmitting a livemedia stream are received at the media recording device 110. Atoperation 304, a user identification (ID) is assigned to the live mediastream. The network address and/or user ID may be provided, e.g., viauser input to the user interface of media recording device 110 (e.g.,via the option TRANSMIT LIVE 408 in the window 402 of FIG. 4, or byentering user preferences in response to a menu of options as describedfurther in FIG. 5).

If the network address corresponds to a target receiving device (orfinal destination device), such as one of receiving devices 150A-150C,the live media stream is transmitted to the target receiving device 150over a network (e.g., a peer-to-peer network) in near real time atoperation 306. If the network address corresponds to a network storagefacility (e.g., media services system 105), the live media stream may betransmitted to the network storage facility at operation 308, along withan authorization requirement for providing access to a target receivingdevice (or final destination device), such as one of receiving devices150A-150C at operation 310. A notification is generated and transmittedto the target receiving device at operation 312. A sample notificationis shown in FIG. 8. As described above, the live media files may bedistinguished from the stored media files. This feature is shown anddescribed further in FIG. 9.

As indicated above, media management and related services may includeproviding options for enabling a user of media recording device 110, orauthorized individual, to establish preferences with respect toauthorization, account management, and storage management. The mediamanagement services include a user interface for this purpose as shownin FIG. 5. A user interface screen 500 depicting menu options formanaging media files and account information is shown in FIG. 5. Theselectable menu options correspond generally to the components 120-126described above in FIG. 1. The menu options include AUTHORIZATIONREQUIREMENTS 502, ACCOUNT INFORMATION 504, DEVICE INFORMATION 505,ACCOUNT PREFERENCES 506, and MEDIA FILES 508. The user interface screen500 may be presented to the user via, e.g., output component 115 ofmedia recording device 110 or via a Web interface provided to, e.g., oneof receiving devices 150A-150C, where the receiving device 150 is underthe operation or control of the user. The option, AUTHORIZATIONREQUIREMENTS 502 enables a user to add, change, or delete anauthorization requirement.

The user may also add, change, or delete users who may be associatedwith the account to which the user is assigned via the ACCOUNTINFORMATION option 504. Likewise, a user may add, change, or deletedevices associated with the account via the DEVICE INFORMATION option505. In further exemplary embodiments, the user may select storagepreferences and transmission preferences via the option, ACCOUNTPREFERENCES 506. The storage preferences may provide instructions fordetermining the conditions for which an alert regarding availablestorage may be transmitted as described above with respect to FIG. 1. Asample alert is shown in FIG. 10. The transmission preferences mayprovide instructions for selecting a communications path fortransmitting media files as described above with respect to FIG. 1. TheMEDIA FILES option 508 enables a user to view a listing of media filesstored locally in storage component 118, stored in storage device 106,or both. In addition, this option 508 enables a user to preview files,e.g., before making a determination to delete a media file from storagedevice 106. When this option is selected, a portion of a selected mediafile in the listing may be streamed from the storage device 106 to themedia recording device 110. In alternative exemplary embodiments, aportion of each media file may be stored locally in storage component118 and presented upon selection.

As indicated above, media services system 105 provides centralized mediamanagement services to account members (e.g., a user of media recordingdevice 110). Turning now to FIG. 6, a flow diagram describing a processfor providing centralized media management services will now bedescribed in exemplary embodiments.

A new account is initiated upon a request by an individual to receivethe media services via the account management component 120 of the mediaservices application 103. At operation 602, an account record is createdfor the individual (e.g., user of media recording device 110). A sampleaccount record and media file directory are shown and described in FIG.7. An account identification (ID) is stored in the account record atoperation 604. The account ID differentiates the account from otheraccounts serviced by the media services system 105. A user ID may begenerated for the account as well. The user ID differentiates the userfrom other users within the same account. At operation 606, the accountID is mapped to storage space via a media file directory allocated instorage device 106 for the account. As shown in FIG. 7, for example, theaccount ID of the account record 700 is used as a key for mapping theaccount with the allocated storage space via media file directory 702.In alternative exemplary embodiments, a user may request that anauthorization requirement established for a particular target receivingdevice 150 and/or user be mapped to specified media files stored in theallocated storage space of storage device 106. This optional mapping isshown in FIG. 7 for purposes of illustration.

At operation 608, a user interface is presented to the user with menuoptions for managing accounts, devices, media files, and authorizationsettings. The menu options may be presented, e.g., via the userinterface screen 500 shown in FIG. 5. At operation 610, selectionsentered by the user are received and the selections are stored in theaccount record 700 at operation 612.

As indicated above, a target receiving device (e.g., one of receivingdevices 150A-150C) may be presented with a notification of a new mediafile to which the receiving device 150 has been identified in theauthorization requirement (e.g., via the communication shown in displayscreen 800 of FIG. 8) or may request access to a media file via an inputcomponent of the receiving device 150. Upon successful authorization ofthe receiving device 150 by the host system 130 via, e.g., theauthorization component 126, a library or listing of media filesassociated with the authorization requirement and receiving device 150may be presented to a user of the receiving device 150. A sample mediafile library is shown in FIG. 9.

Turning now to FIG. 9, a display screen 900 depicting a sample mediafile library and options provided by the media file management system100 will now be described in exemplary embodiments. The media filelibrary lists media files MF1-MFn associated with the receiving device150. As indicated above, the live media files may be distinguished fromthe stored media files by ways, such as color, symbol, brightness, audiosignal, etc. As shown in the display screen 900 of FIG. 9, a live mediafile is distinguished by the element (LIVE) following the descriptor,ALEX VARSITY BASEBALL GAME 4-25-06. The display screen 900 also includesinstructions for guiding a user through the library.

As indicated above, a user may select preferences establishingconditions upon which a storage alert may be transmitted. A displayscreen 1000 depicting a sample notification and related options providedby the media file management system is shown in FIG. 10. A user mayselect from the available options as shown in display screen 1000 and asdescribed above with respect to FIG. 1.

As described above, the exemplary embodiments can be in the form ofcomputer-implemented processes and apparatuses for practicing thoseprocesses. The exemplary embodiments can also be in the form of computerprogram code containing instructions embodied in tangible media, such asfloppy diskettes, CD ROMs, hard drives, or any other computer-readablestorage medium, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded intoand executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus forpracticing the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments can alsobe in the form of computer program code, for example, whether stored ina storage medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer, ortransmitted over some transmission medium, loaded into and/or executedby a computer, or transmitted over some transmission medium, such asover electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or viaelectromagnetic radiation, wherein, when the computer program code isloaded into an executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatusfor practicing the exemplary embodiments. When implemented on ageneral-purpose microprocessor, the computer program code segmentsexecute specific microprocessor machine instructions. The computerprogram product code could also be implemented using electronic logiccircuits or a microchip.

While the invention has been described with reference to exemplaryembodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatvarious changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted forelements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Inaddition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situationor material to the teachings of the invention without departing from theessential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the inventionnot be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying outthis invention, but that the invention will include all embodimentsfalling within the scope of the claims. Moreover, the use of the termsfirst, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but ratherthe terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element fromanother. Furthermore, the use of the terms a, an, etc. do not denote alimitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least oneof the referenced item.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system, comprising: a memory device; and aprocessor communicatively coupled to the memory device, the processorexecuting program instructions, the program instructions causing theprocessor to perform operations, the operations comprising: providing,via a user interface, user-selectable options for managing storage spacein the memory device that is allocated for a user account, theuser-selectable options including an option for defining a condition forgenerating an alert when a threshold amount of the storage space isconsumed; receiving, over a network, a data stream from a media deviceassigned to the user account; determining an encoding rate correspondingto the data stream received by the media device; storing the data streamin the storage space; monitoring consumption of the storage space inresponse to the storing; and upon determining the condition is metresponsive to the monitoring, transmitting the alert to the mediadevice, the alert indicating an amount of storage space consumed and anapproximated amount of recording time remaining for the data streambefore a maximum capacity of the storage space is reached, theapproximated amount of recording time determined as a function of theencoding rate.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the alert furtherindicates an approximated amount of recording time remaining for thedata stream that corresponds to an alternate encoding rate.
 3. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the user-selectable options further includean option to automatically purge media files in the storage space whenthe threshold amount of the storage space is consumed.
 4. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the user-selectable options further include an optionto purchase additional storage space for the user account when thethreshold amount of the storage space is consumed.
 5. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the operations further include: receiving an identityof a target device from the media device; assigning an access code tothe data stream captured by the media device; transmitting the accesscode to the target device; and upon validation of the identity and theaccess code received from the target device, providing the target devicewith access to the data stream.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein theaccess code assigned to the data stream is received from the mediadevice.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the operations furtherinclude: providing, via the user interface, a listing of media contentstored in the storage space for the user account, the listing of mediacontent including the data stream and previously stored media files; anddifferentiating, via a visual indicator in the listing, the data streamfrom the previously stored media files.
 8. A method, comprising:providing, via a processor, a user interface including user-selectableoptions for managing storage space in a memory device that is allocatedfor a user account, the user-selectable options including an option fordefining a condition for generating an alert when a threshold amount ofthe storage space is consumed; receiving, over a network, a data streamfrom a media device assigned to the user account; determining anencoding rate corresponding to the data stream received by the mediadevice; storing the data stream in the storage space; monitoringconsumption of the storage space in response to the storing; and upondetermining the condition is met responsive to the monitoring,transmitting the alert to the media device, the alert indicating anamount of storage space consumed and an approximated amount of recordingtime remaining for the data stream before a maximum capacity of thestorage space is reached, the approximated amount of recording timedetermined as a function of the encoding rate.
 9. The method of claim 8,wherein the alert further indicates an approximated amount of recordingtime remaining for the data stream that corresponds to an alternateencoding rate.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the user-selectableoptions further include an option to automatically purge media files inthe storage space when the threshold amount of the storage space isconsumed.
 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the user-selectable optionsfurther include an option to purchase additional storage space for theuser account when the threshold amount of the storage space is consumed.12. The method of claim 8, further comprising: receiving an identity ofa target device from the media device; assigning an access code to thedata stream captured by the media device; transmitting the access codeto the target device; and upon validation of the identity and the accesscode received from the target device, providing the target device withaccess to the data stream.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein theaccess code assigned to the data stream is received from the mediadevice.
 14. The method of claim 8, further comprising: providing, viathe user interface, a listing of media content stored in the storagespace for the user account, the listing of media content including thedata stream and previously stored media files; and differentiating, viaa visual indicator in the listing, the data stream from the previouslystored media files.
 15. A computer program product comprising acomputer-readable storage medium having instructions encoded thereon,which when executed by a processor cause the processor to performoperations, the operations comprising: providing, via a user interface,user-selectable options for managing storage space in a memory devicethat is allocated for a user account, the user-selectable optionsincluding an option for defining a condition for generating an alertwhen a threshold amount of the storage space is consumed; receiving,over a network, a data stream from a media device assigned to the useraccount; determining an encoding rate corresponding to the data streamreceived by the media device; storing the data stream in the storagespace; monitoring consumption of the storage space in response to thestoring; and upon determining the condition is met responsive to themonitoring, transmitting the alert to the media device, the alertindicating an amount of storage space consumed and an approximatedamount of recording time remaining for the data stream before a maximumcapacity of the storage space is reached, the approximated amount ofrecording time determined as a function of the encoding rate.
 16. Thecomputer program product of claim 15, wherein the alert furtherindicates an approximated amount of recording time remaining for thedata stream that corresponds to an alternate encoding rate.
 17. Thecomputer program product of claim 15, wherein the user-selectableoptions further include an option to automatically purge media files inthe storage space when the threshold amount of the storage space isconsumed.
 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein theuser-selectable options further include an option to purchase additionalstorage space for the user account when the threshold amount of thestorage space is consumed.
 19. The computer program product of claim 15,wherein the operations further include: receiving an identity of atarget device from the media device; assigning an access code to thedata stream captured by the media device; transmitting the access codeto the target device; and upon validation of the identity and the accesscode received from the target device, providing the target device withaccess to the data stream.
 20. The computer program product of claim 15,wherein the operations further include: providing, via the userinterface, a listing of media content stored in the storage space forthe user account, the listing of media content including the data streamand previously stored media files; and differentiating, via a visualindicator in the listing, the data stream from the previously storedmedia files.